Ferrari already has two versions of the 2026 F1 car ready: what’s happening in Maranello?. Ferrari is preparing for the 2026 F1 season with two versions of its new car.

According to Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur, there will be two versions of the new 2026 car. Here’s the explanation behind this choice.

The relaunch of Ferrari

As Formula 1 approaches the start of its new era, all teams are fully focused on bringing the best possible car to the track, aiming to start the cycle on the right foot. After announcing the presentation date for the 2026 car, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur revealed that there will be two versions of the project. But why this particular choice?

After a season like 2025, which ended with zero victories and a limited number of podium appearances—especially when looking back at the end of 2024—Ferrari needs to rise again. In 2026, mistakes will not be an option. Starting the new cycle correctly will inevitably bring major advantages in the following years.

The new Ferrari, whose name has not yet been revealed, will be unveiled on January 23 and will then take to the track at the Fiorano circuit for a few test kilometers.

The two versions of the project

According to Frederic Vasseur, the “first Ferrari” we will see in January will be different from the version that will race in the first Grand Prix in Australia. Why this choice by the team? There’s nothing concerning about it. As the team principal revealed during Ferrari’s Christmas lunch, it’s likely that all teams will follow a similar path.

During the first tests, teams will bring a slightly different car, focusing solely on the reliability of the new power units while continuing development in the wind tunnel. Therefore, with these two versions, the Maranello team is not revising the base project at all: they simply want to go on track for the initial part of testing to accumulate mileage and gather crucial data.

Let other Scuderia Fans know about us